Motherwell won’t hang about in the search for a new boss – with Tommy Wright and Derek Adams already in the mix for the Fir Park hotseat.
The Steelmen are still reeling after Stephen Robinson’s bombshell departure as the Northern Irishman walked out in the wake of defeat to Kilmarnock.
Well chiefs were left stunning as the gaffer’s decision to quit just minutes after the loss that’s left the club perilously close to the Premiership dropzone on the back of a nightmare nine match winless streak.
The Fir Park men also saw their walkover points awarded for covid breached whipped away to pile on the pressure and Robinson insisted he’d taken the club as far as he could after nearly four years in charge.
Keith Lasley and Maurice Ross will take the side in their crucial Lanarkshire Derby clash with Hamilton and could take charge permanently with the Well board vowing to act swiftly to find a successor.
Former St Johnstone boss Wright is an early front runner as is a free agent following his decision to leave the Saints last summer.
The Northern Irishman has Premiership pedigree but Record Sport understands ex-Ross County manager Adams is also an option.
Adams – who spent six years at Fir Park as a player – is currently in charge of League Two Morevambe down south and has led the Shrimpers to the play-off places.
The 45-year-old previously led Plymouth Argyle to promotion in his four years on the south coast and kept the Staggies in the top flight in Scotland as well as securing a top six finish.
Former Salford City and Fleetwood Town boss Graham Alexander is also in the frame, along with ex-Livingston gaffer Gary Holt, former Morton manager David Hopkin and Finnish club hero Simo Valakari.
Well admitted Robinson’s departure was a shock – but they will get quick in finding a successor.
A Motherwell statement said: “After Wednesday night’s match with Kilmarnock, Stephen approached the board, giving an honest assessment of the current situation. He then stated his desire to leave.
“It is with regret that the board accepted his resignation, having carefully considered his reasons for wanting to leave his post.
“Despite the current restrictions, the board will now run a thorough process to identify the right person to take the manager’s post.
“This will move at pace, mindful of the busy fixture list and the January transfer window’s impending opening.”
